Bacterial Endocarditis

Bacterial endocarditis is an infection of the heart valves or inner lining of the heart, called the endocardium. Bacteria in the mouth, intestinal tract or urinary tract travel to the heart via the bloodstream and can cause growths or holes in the valves or tissue, seriously damaging the heart.

This bacteria generally don't cause problems but can be life threatening in patients with heart disease or valve conditions.